The appointment of Interior Cabinet Secretary Professor Kithure Kindiki as Deputy President nominee by President William Ruto has left a vacancy at the Interior Ministry, triggering a search for his successor. This high-stakes process has begun in earnest, with several prominent names being floated, and political insiders say Ruto’s allies are working tirelessly to find the right fit for this critical position.
At the forefront is Katoo Ole Metito, currently the State House Comptroller and a close confidant of Ruto. With significant political experience, including his role as Minister for Provincial Administration and Internal Security during President Mwai Kibaki’s Grand Coalition Government, Ole Metito is viewed as a leading contender. His background in Maasai politics and longstanding relationship with Ruto makes him a strong candidate to take over the security docket.
The Interior Ministry has historically been held by figures from the Maasai community, with notable leaders like the late George Saitoti, Joseph Ole Lenku, and General Joseph Nkaissery all having served in this role. Ole Metito’s potential appointment would continue this trend, but analysts suggest President Ruto must carefully consider ethnic balance in his decision-making process.
Another key figure in the discussions is National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah. However, experts believe that Ichung’wah is unlikely to benefit from the fall of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, as many Kenyans feel that the new Interior CS shouldn’t come from the Mount Kenya region. Ruto is also under pressure to use this opportunity to ensure broader ethnic representation within his cabinet.
In a surprising twist, some believe President Ruto should appoint someone from the opposition to secure a broader political consensus, especially with ODM leader Raila Odinga. Dr. Ray Omollo, the current Interior Principal Secretary, has been floated as a potential successor to Kindiki, particularly given his strong rapport with Raila. Former Police Spokesman Charles Owino, who recently returned to government service after a brief foray into politics, is also being mentioned as a contender.
As the political calculations intensify, President Ruto faces a delicate balancing act in appointing the next Interior CS, a move that will have significant implications for his administration and national security.
